We are finally in our Harstine Island house.
After months back in the Pacific Northwest—and more than a year of delays—we are unpacking boxes, arranging furniture, finishing network wiring, and slowly letting this place become home.
Getting here took patience. Fire issues required a new suppression system and a crash course in L&I, fire installers, electricians, permits, and persistence. Final deck requirements meant redoing some work. None of it was glamorous, but all of it was part of the journey.
The bed finally arrived, and we said goodnight to our first sunset from our own pillows, then woke to morning light from the same place. That felt like a milestone.
We are still partly based in University Place for appointments, church, and volunteering, but I can already feel Harstine pulling us more fully into its rhythm—trees, water, deer, quiet, and the changing light over Pickering Passage.
The tender part is Rascal. He is struggling with age, health, and dementia symptoms. We hoped to give him some time in this new home, and we are grateful for every quiet moment with him here. He helped me through surgery and recovery; then I helped him through his surgery and cancer treatment. Now he rests in my lap, and I’m trying to listen carefully to what love asks next.
The word that followed me home from China still fits:
陪 (péi) — to accompany.
To accompany a house becoming a home. To accompany Emily into this new rhythm. To accompany Rascal gently. To accompany this land, this water, this season.
We are not fully settled. There are still boxes, tools, cables, and decisions everywhere.
But we are here. Visitors welcome!! Trailer available for long staying guests along with two guest rooms…
